The Block of the Writer? 2025 Will Be Different

I am writing myself into obscurity. Each sentence feels more meaningless than the last. No direction, no forethought. Questioning every prose and wondering if people would scoff at the pointlessness of my work. It’s an expression of self-doubt that has caused a longwinded hiatus for Geordie Travels. I search for purpose in my writing. For a worthwhile hook, a great introduction, a compelling story for the middle, and that perfect ending that’ll tie things up …

Gaúcho riding on horseback heading out into open country.

The Gaúcho DNA: Rio Grande do Sul’s Proud Heritage!

In the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, September is quite an important month. Not only is it the month where on the 7th day, Brazil as a nation celebrates its Day of Independence, but in the Gaúcho region of the South, September is a time to showcase cultural identity and remember a simpler way of living from years gone by.  But what is a Gaúcho you may be wondering? A Gaúcho is traditionally …

Lisbon’s Lousy Lifts: Horrible Metro Accessibility

It may seem rather strange to write a new travel blog entry discussing the elevators of an underground metro system, but a year on from my three-night stopover in Lisbon and shoddy lifts remain my prevailing memory. (Pictures at the end of the post). It began with a passing comment, as I neared the top of an exceedingly long staircase at Baixo-Chiado station, seated in my wheelchair and perched on a platform stairlift. One of …

Accessible Cornwall guide

Accessible Cornwall: Things To See And Do!

Cornwall: home of ancient kings and their wizard sidekicks, hearty pirates of the singing type, and of course, who could forget piping hot pasties filled to the brim with meat and veggies?! Yet to mention such stereotypes is to barely scratch the surface of what this magnificent county has to offer visitors. From world-class beaches to spectacular nature, and from Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury spa retreats; Cornwall has it all in abundance. But is Cornwall accessible? …

Accessible Brazil visits the waterfront in Porto Alegre

Introducing: Accessible Brazil

I thought while I’m going to be spending a considerable amount of time in Brazil, I may as well switch some of my attention to this beautiful country and try to highlight the good and the bad in terms of accessibility here. With that in mind, I’ve set up a new Instagram account called Accessible Brazil to accompany my quest (@accessiblebrazil), and I invite you all to check it out and give it a follow …

View of beach and mountains in background, in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, South America

A South American Adventure Begins

It recently occurred to me that I haven’t ventured further than mainland Europe in over five years. A fact which I found somewhat alarming. This is hardly the form of a man who has previously boasted about wanting to visit every country in the world.  It goes without saying that the pandemic hasn’t helped matters, and prior to the world grinding to an abrupt halt, I was focusing on finishing my degree. But now’s the …

Camping in Scotland: Accessible pitches; Loch Earn

Camping in Scotland: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

The UK is starting to slowly open up again and although the prospect of foreign travel remains a little daunting and confusing under current restrictions, I’m emboldened by the thought of being able to hit the road and explore a little more of Britain at least. It’s my birthday this weekend and so we’ve decided to tentatively dip our touristic toe out into the wider world by heading on a mini-break around Loch Lomond, The …

Travel to Taiwan: feature image is of a religious shrine on a street corner.

Tales of Travel in Taiwan

It’s been 9 years since I first travelled to Taiwan; a trip which was made possible thanks to the study programme I was on in The Netherlands. Living in Taiwan for half a year gave me the opportunity to complete my Minor study abroad – a novelty that was not lost on me given that I already studying abroad for my Major! Heading to Taiwan meant it was also going to be the first time …

Disability Hate Speech: Online Trolls & A Need For Education On Disability

I have repeated on a number of occasions that, for me, the disabled community is one of the last minorities to truly have its moment in the public consensus spotlight. I often sit at home and read article after article, detailing the fantastic strides being taken to try and eradicate sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, and more. Activism which includes amazing protest movements, and legions of supporters online, urging others to take action. Legions who argue …

Halloween fright night: Spinal Surgery Anniversary.

October 31st 2001 – Halloween. I look to my right as I’m being wheeled down to theatre on a hospital gurney. People are busying themselves putting up spooky decorations ahead of a fancy-dress party later that evening. There’s a sort of calm before the storm. I, on the other hand, was anything but calm. Kicking and screaming – literally – I was scared for my life. I was 11 years old, and already had several …